Radeon Software 16.4.2 makes XConnect fully functional

AMD has released version 16.4.2 of its Radeon Software Crimson Edition drivers. This hotfix release includes "full support" for AMD’s XConnect. XConnect is a feature that allows hot-plugging of Radeon graphics cards in external graphics enclosures using Thunderbolt 3 ports. AMD announced XConnect back in March along with preliminary driver support. Razer was among the first to include support for external graphics enclosures with its Core dock and Blade notebook, and Intel's Skull Canyon NUC is also poised to support external graphics when it begins shipping in May.

XConnect has a laundry list of requirements aside from this latest driver release. Thunderbolt firmware v.16 or later, a Thunderbolt 3 port, and an active Thunderbolt 3 cable are all required to make XConnect work. PC manufacturers need to include BIOS extensions for Thunderbolt external graphics, too, and the device must be running Windows 10 build 10586 or later.

Radeon Software version 16.4.2 also includes a number of bug fixes for Crossfire configurations, notably in The Division and the SteamVR performance test. It also adds application-specific Crossfire profiles for Elite Dangerous and Need for Speed, along with the usual laundry list of bug fixes. Radeon owners can download the appropriate version of the new software from AMD's driver page now.